Boro may join North-east rivals Newcastle United in the battle to sign Luis Boa Morte.

London sources claim that Boro have made an inquiry for the #5m rated Portuguese midfielder.

The Magpies have been linked with strong interest in Boa Morte all summer, though Fulham's inflated asking price has proved a stumbling block so far.

Graeme Souness is said to have offered #3.5m, and this has been turned down by Chris Coleman.

However, the Fulham boss is ready to sell if the price is right.

So Boro would have to go to #4m or more if they wanted to entice Fulham to open negotiations.

The London sources claim that Boro have already sent a deputation to Craven Cottage to open discussions over a possible transfer.

Having had a huge bid accepted in their failed bid for Juventus midfielder Stephen Appiah last month, Boro are certainly capable of making a respectable offer for Boa Morte, who is 28 tomorrow.

The Portuguese is essentially a left-sided player, and would hardly accept coming to the Riverside to be understudy to England winger Stewart Downing.

But Boa Morte can operate comfortably in the middle and, in this respect, has a lot of Bolo Zenden's attacking qualities.

He likes to get forward to support attacks, he runs at defenders and he scores goals, while he is stronger than Zenden on the ball.

While Boa Morte could be the quality midfielder that Boro are currently chasing, the club have reiterated yesterday's exclusive comments from Boro chairman Steve Gibson in the Gazette that Aussie striker Mark Viduka will not be leaving Teesside.

There are more stories in the media today claiming that Newcastle are planning a fresh move for the 29-year-old, but Boro chief executive Keith Lamb said: "There has been no contact between the two clubs regarding Mark Viduka, nor is it expected.

"Viduka is not for sale to Newcastle or any other club.

"Mark will be an important player for us this season and we wish to retain our best players and add more, to give us the best possible chance of success."

The information given to the Gazette from Newcastle sources regarding Viduka on Monday was very strong and has not been denied from the St James' end, while Souness has since gone on record to stress that he admires the Aussie striker.

However Viduka's Boro future is now firmly determined, and he could play some part in the opening Riverside friendly against Atletico Madrid tonight (7.30pm).

Viduka, who travelled to Portugal for the Algarve tournament last weekend, but did not kick a ball, is named in the squad to face the Spaniards.

The Aussie looked sharp in his opening games against Hearts and Darlington and will be looking to step up another gear.

Boro fans also have their first opportunity to see #7.5m striker Yakubu in action.

Teenager James Morrison is also included for the first time following his success with England Under-19s in the European Championships in Northern Ireland.